Subaru WRX STI Oil Type & Capacity
Factory oil type for the Subaru WRX STI.
Last updated: 2026-10-29 • Reading time: 8 min • By AllOEMManuals Editorial Team
Quick Answer
2019-2021 Subaru WRX STI: 4.20 QTS. (3.97 L) — API SN or SM, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-4 SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil Specified.
| Generation | Years | Top spec |
|---|---|---|
| 2019-2021 | 2019-2021 | 4.20 QTS. (3.97 L) — API SN or SM, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-4 SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil Specified |
| 2018 | 2018 | 4.20 QTS. (3.97 L) — API SN or SM, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-4 SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil Specified |
| 2017 | 2017 | 4.20 QTS. (3.97 L) — API SN or SM, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-4 SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil Specified |
This vehicle's factory manual
The spec is above. This opens the 2019 Subaru WRX STI factory book. Use another year if yours is older.
Subaru WRX STI maintenance schedule
Know the exact oil type & capacity job for your Subaru WRX STI
2019-2021 Subaru WRX STI: 4.20 QTS. (3.97 L) — API SN or SM, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-4 SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil Specified.
Fluid type and capacity can change by engine, drivetrain, and transmission. Verify the exact branch before filling anything. Once the spec is confirmed, use the supplies and purchase links below to build the full one-trip shopping list before you start the repair.
Exact Vehicle Check
The button opens the factory book for this vehicle. Use the engine picker only when your trim is not the one this page already matched.
2019-2021
- →If 5W-30 synthetic oil is not available, 5W-40 conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed but should be changed to 5W-30 synthetic oil at the next oil change.
2018
2017
- →If 5W-30 synthetic oil is not available, 5W-40 conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed but should be changed to 5W-30 synthetic oil at the next oil change.
2016
2015
Manual already checked Amazon for you
You came here for the exact spec. Now here is the exact part — plus the two things people always forget and have to run back to the store for.
Subaru WRX STI 5W-30 Oil + Filter
The factory spec is 5W-30. Buy the exact oil and matching filter in one shot.
We earn a small commission if you buy through these links — at zero extra cost to you. We only suggest items that match the factory specs on this page.
Oil Change — Manual's Parts List
Everything for one clean oil change. No extra trips.
- 1Engine OilShop →
5W-30 — get the right number of quarts
- 2Oil FilterShop →
Match to your engine variant
- 3Drain Plug Crush WasherShop →
The #1 cause of post-change leaks
- 4Oil Filter WrenchShop →
Hand-tightened filters seize after heat cycles
- 5Shop Rags / Blue TowelsShop →
6-pack — you will use more than you think
Get everything at once
One search shows all of the above on a single page.
Links go to Amazon via our affiliate store (aiautorepair-20). We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — it keeps the site running and the data free.
One-Trip Shopping List
Recommended supplies and tools for this job, grouped so you can buy everything before the repair starts.
Premium Full Synthetic Oil
Match the viscosity (e.g. 0W-20) to your vehicle spec.
Oil Filter
High-efficiency filter to match your specific engine model.
Oil Drain Pan
Low-profile pan for easy oil collection and disposal.
Filter Wrench
Adjustable or size-specific wrench to remove stuck filters.
Funnel Set
Prevent spills when refilling your engine oil.
Shop Towels
Lint-free towels for spills, dipsticks, and filter surfaces.
Project Essentials
Basic tool sets, gloves, and cleaning supplies for your Subaru WRX STI so the job is ready when the parts arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What oil type & capacity does a Subaru WRX STI use?
- 2019-2021 Subaru WRX STI: 4.20 QTS. (3.97 L) — API SN or SM, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-4 SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil Specified.
- How much oil does a Subaru WRX STI take?
- 4.20 QTS. (3.97 L) — API SN or SM, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-4 SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil Specified (2019-2021)
- How often should I change the oil in a Subaru WRX STI?
- Most Subaru service manuals recommend oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions (towing, extreme temperatures, stop-and-go traffic) may require more frequent changes. Verify with your owner's manual for the exact interval.
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Author & Review
Published by AllOEMManuals, founded by Lyndon Bedford, an automotive technician with 20 years of experience. He owned and operated a mechanic shop in Hurst, Texas from 2014 to 2022 and continues hands-on repair work.
Content may combine manual references, general repair templates, and AI-assisted drafting. Confirm the source, vehicle configuration, and applicability before working. Report corrections through our contact page.
Last updated: 2026-10-29